learning - Monroe County Community College

RIVER RAISIN HERITAGE TRAIL DEDICATED WITH HELP FROM
JEFF CORWIN
On the evening of the first day of the celebration, Corwin spoke to more than 500 people
at the La-Z-Boy Center about the importance of saving endangered species.
The second day featured numerous activities, such as a 5-mile run and walk, family
educational tours, a dog walk, a family bicycle ride, “ghost” tours and more.
“We do not inherit from our ancestors; I believe we borrow from our children,”
Corwin said. “And what a great testament – what a great investment – to our
children to leave them this very, very special place.
Following a decade’s worth of work by a broad spectrum of community organizations,
the River Raisin Heritage Trail was officially dedicated in June at a two-day
celebration near the corner of East Elm and Detroit avenues.
“You created this not just for the people of your community but for the people of our
country. This is amazing. You have this amalgamation of state park, national wildlife refuge,
international wildlife refuge, an historic park – all coming together for you to share with
the world.”
MCCC, as a major sponsor, played a lead role in the planning and execution of the
celebration.
The first day of the celebration included a dedication ceremony with speeches by local,
state and federal officials; a guest appearance by Jeff Corwin, host of Animal Planet’s
“The Jeff Corwin Experience” and NBC/MSNBC wildlife and science expert; living
history encampments; a ribbon cutting; and the unveiling of a new River Raisin
Heritage Trail entrance sign designed and constructed by local volunteers.